Nestled in the heart of Zambia, Kafue National Park is one of Africa’s largest and most pristine wildlife reserves, offering an extraordinary safari experience filled with adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and abundant wildlife amongst Zambia's national parks. Spanning over 22,400 square kilometers, Kafue is home to diverse habitats, including seasonal floodplains, dense woodlands, and the iconic Kafue River, providing shelter to a rich array of species like lions, elephants, leopards, and over 500 bird species. For travelers seeking an authentic African safari, Kafue National Park’s lodges and camps provide a gateway to explore its untamed beauty and wildlife.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top safari lodges and camps in Kafue National Park, from eco-friendly luxury lodges along the river to remote bush camps in the vast Busanga Plains. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, these accommodations cater to every type of adventurer, offering unique experiences that combine comfort, conservation, and an intimate connection with nature. Discover the best places to stay in Kafue and embark on a safari adventure like no other.

Kafue National Park Lodges

Ila Safari Lodge

Ila Safari Lodge is an eco-luxury retreat situated on the banks of the Kafue River, setting a high standard for sustainability among the Kafue safari lodges. This lodge combines comfort with environmentally-friendly practices, including solar power and Zambia's first electric game drive vehicle, allowing guests to explore the park with minimal environmental impact. The accommodations are beautifully designed, featuring spacious, open-fronted tents with river views, private decks, and modern comforts that blend seamlessly with nature. Guests can unwind in the lodge’s infinity pool or enjoy gourmet meals in a riverside setting, making it ideal for those seeking both luxury and sustainability.

The lodge offers a variety of activities, from excellent game viewing and walking safaris to boat trips along the Kafue River. These excursions provide excellent opportunities to spot elephants, hippos, and numerous bird species of central Kafue. Additionally, Ila Safari Lodge places a strong emphasis on community engagement, allowing guests to learn about local culture and support community projects through their stay. This combination of eco-consciousness, luxury, and meaningful cultural experiences makes Ila Safari Lodge an outstanding choice for travelers who value conservation and authenticity.

 Nanzhila Plains Camp

Located in the remote southern region of Kafue National Park, Nanzhila Plains Camp offers a truly secluded and intimate safari experience. The camp’s location provides exclusive access to a less-visited part of the park, renowned for its solitude and pristine landscapes. Accommodations here are rustic yet comfortable, with open-sided safari tents that allow guests to feel fully immersed in the natural surroundings. The camp is surrounded by diverse habitats, from grasslands and woodlands to the iconic plains, offering unique wildlife sightings including big cats, antelope species, and an impressive array of birds.

Guests at Nanzhila Plains Camp can enjoy a range of guided activities, such as game drives and walking safaris led by experienced guides. Birdwatching is also a highlight, with the camp situated in one of Zambia’s richest bird areas. The camp’s focus on conservation and the simplicity of its setup make it ideal for travelers who want an off-the-grid experience without sacrificing quality. With fewer tourists in this part of the park, Nanzhila Plains Camp provides a rare opportunity to connect with nature in an undisturbed setting.

Kaingu Safari Lodge

Kaingu Safari Lodge is nestled along the scenic Kafue River, offering a harmonious blend of adventure and relaxation in Kafue National Park. Known for its eco-conscious approach, Kaingu’s accommodations include thatched tents and chalets with views over the river, ensuring guests have a peaceful environment to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. The lodge’s design emphasizes natural materials and integrates seamlessly with its surroundings, giving guests an authentic feel of the Zambian wilderness. The lodge’s main area includes a deck overlooking the river, where guests can unwind after a day of exploration.

The activities at Kaingu Safari Lodge cater to a wide range of interests, from game drives and walking safaris to more adventurous options like canoeing and fishing. Visitors can also participate in cultural visits to nearby communities, providing insight into local life and traditions. This combination of land and water-based activities makes Kaingu ideal for those who seek both thrill and cultural engagement. The lodge’s commitment to responsible tourism and community involvement also resonates with travelers interested in sustainable travel.

Musekese Camp

Musekese Camp, situated in a remote and less-visited area of Kafue National Park, is known for its focus on conservation and authentic bush experiences. Operated by expert guides passionate about the park’s preservation, Musekese offers a traditional safari experience that places nature and wildlife at the forefront. The camp’s accommodations consist of four comfortable safari tents with a view over the Kafue River, providing a quiet and intimate setting for guests. Musekese’s small size ensures personalized service and a deep connection with the environment, making it a favorite among eco-conscious travelers.

Activities at Musekese Camp emphasize immersion in nature, with options for game drives, walking safaris, and birdwatching. The camp is located in an area rich in wildlife, and its guides offer unique insights into the ecosystem and conservation efforts within the park. Musekese is especially appealing to travelers interested in wildlife conservation, as the camp is involved in several community-based initiatives to protect the area’s biodiversity. Its emphasis on responsible tourism makes Musekese an excellent choice for those seeking both adventure and environmental stewardship.

 Fig Tree Bush Camp

Fig Tree Bush Camp is a seasonal camp operated by Mukambi Safari Lodge, situated along the Shishamba River in a secluded section of Kafue National Park. The camp’s elevated tented chalets provide panoramic views of the surrounding plains, allowing guests to enjoy sightings of wildlife from the comfort of their rooms. With only four tents, Fig Tree Bush Camp offers an exclusive and intimate atmosphere, ideal for travelers looking for solitude and a deep connection to nature. Each tent is comfortably furnished and designed to maximize the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Guests can participate in walking safaris and game drives that explore the diverse ecosystems of this lesser-known part of Kafue. The camp’s location provides excellent opportunities for spotting big cats, elephants, and a variety of bird species. The guided nature walks allow guests to experience the park at a slower pace, ideal for those interested in an immersive and close-to-nature experience. Fig Tree Bush Camp’s commitment to eco-friendly practices makes it a great choice for travelers looking to minimize their impact while enjoying the wild beauty of Zambia.

Busanga Bush Camp

Located on the famed Busanga Plains, Busanga Bush Camp offers one of the most iconic safari experiences in Kafue National Park. The camp’s four en-suite tents are strategically positioned to overlook the expansive plains, known for their seasonal floods and rich wildlife, including large herds of buffalo, leopards, and an array of bird species. This camp provides an exclusive and personalized experience, where guests can immerse themselves in the raw beauty of Kafue’s untouched landscapes. The camp’s rustic design allows for a genuine bush feel without compromising comfort.

Guests at Busanga Bush Camp can explore the plains through game drives and walking safaris, where sightings of big cats, antelope, and other African wildlife are frequent. The camp’s location offers spectacular sunrise and sunset views, creating memorable moments for photographers and nature lovers. Busanga Bush Camp is a great option for travelers interested in prime wildlife viewing and those who want an authentic bush experience in one of Zambia’s most captivating regions.

 Chisa Busanga Camp

Chisa Busanga Camp is one of the most innovative safari camps in Kafue, featuring unique ‘bird’s nest’ accommodations that provide a 360-degree view of the Busanga Plains. Elevated on stilts, these rooms are inspired by nature, offering guests a unique way to connect with their surroundings. This camp combines a commitment to eco-friendliness with cutting-edge design, making it a standout choice for travelers seeking an exceptional safari experience. Guests can expect personalized service and well-designed spaces that blend comfort with natural aesthetics.

Activities at Chisa Busanga Camp include guided game drives and walking safaris in the heart of the Busanga Plains, known for its dense wildlife population, including lions, cheetahs, and large herds of elephants. The camp’s elevated rooms provide the perfect vantage point to witness the diverse ecosystem, especially during sunrise and sunset. Chisa Busanga Camp is an ideal choice for those looking for a one-of-a-kind accommodation that merges innovation with immersive wildlife encounters.

 Mukambi Safari Lodge

Known as the "Gateway to Kafue National Park," Mukambi Safari Lodge offers a welcoming environment for a range of travelers, including families, solo adventurers, and couples. The lodge provides a variety of accommodations, including luxury tents, chalets, and family-friendly rooms, each designed for comfort and convenience. Mukambi’s main area features a large deck overlooking the river, where guests can enjoy views of hippos, elephants, and other wildlife while dining or relaxing.

Mukambi Safari Lodge offers an array of activities such as game drives, walking safaris, and boat cruises on the Kafue River, allowing guests to experience the park’s diverse wildlife from different perspectives. The lodge’s relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff make it an excellent starting point for exploring Kafue. For those seeking both comfort and adventure, Mukambi Safari Lodge provides an ideal blend of accessibility, quality, and immersive safari experiences.

 Busanga Plains Camp

Operated by Mukambi Safaris, Busanga Plains Camp is a seasonal camp located deep within the remote and wildlife-rich Busanga Plains. This intimate camp offers just four en-suite tents with views over the floodplain, providing guests with a unique experience in one of Kafue’s most exclusive areas. The accommodations are simple yet comfortable, designed to maximize views and proximity to wildlife.

Guests at Busanga Plains Camp can enjoy early morning game drives and walking safaris, often resulting in thrilling encounters with big cats, wild dogs and large herds of herbivores. The camp’s position on the plains makes it a prime location for spotting predators and offers an extraordinary landscape that shifts with the seasons. For travelers seeking an intimate and rustic safari experience in a premier wildlife area, Busanga Plains Camp is an exceptional choice.

Mayukuyuku Bush Camp

Mayukuyuku Bush Camp, located along the Kafue River, offers an authentic and budget-friendly safari experience. The camp features permanent luxury safari tents along the riverbank, each with an en-suite bathroom and a private porch where guests can relax and take in the natural beauty. Known for its peaceful setting and personal experience and service, Mayukuyuku is ideal for travelers.

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